‘There has been much speculation and names of those who may have been killed in the media and social media. We accept that this is inevitable however we ask that people allow the police and coroner to release the names once the families are ready and appropriately supported.

‘As you would expect the police response to this across Greater Manchester has been significant as we support people to go about their daily business.

‘Part of this response has seen us arrest a 23-year-old man in connection with the attack and we have also carried out two warrants, one in Whalley Range and one in Fallowfield that included a controlled explosion to enable safe entry.

(Picture: PA)

‘We understand that feelings are very raw right now and people are bound to be looking for answers. However, now, more than ever, it is vital that our diverse communities in Greater Manchester stand together and do not tolerate hate.

‘We have been visited by the prime minster and home secretary and we have taken them through the emergency response so far and what we plan to do in future days.

‘I can confirm that the man suspected of carrying out last night’s atrocity has been named as 22-year-old Salman Abedi. However, he has not yet been formally identified and I wouldn’t wish, therefore, to comment further.

‘The priority remains to establish whether he was acting alone or as part of a network.’